Ancient Messene: The Off-the-Radar Outstandingly Preserved Site

Athens , Greece

Ancient Messene: The Off-the-Radar Outstandingly Preserved Site

Active

(2 reviews)

10h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

This is NOT Mycenae! This is Ancient Messene! A stunning, genuinely spectacular setting & site that lies in a serene valley, surrounded by the Arcadian Mountains on one side and the Mediterranean Sea on the other.
Why this tour?
☼ You will be exploring the 4th century BC Ancient Messene in the region of the Mythical Peloponnese.
☼ The remains of this tremendous ancient city are complete and very well-maintained.
☼ A site that has never been destroyed or covered by later settlements and is located in an unspoiled area.
☼ Off-the-radar & off-the-beaten-path!
The remains of this tremendous ancient city include a grand ancient stadium, an ancient theatre with a capacity of up to ten thousand spectators, a fountain house, public buildings such as sanctuaries, temples, statues, a gymnasium, springs, and an agora that hosted political gatherings and many other everyday life events.
We cross the Corinth Canal and of course, enjoy the included lunch/drinks overlooking the beautiful site.

Available options

Ancient Messene: The Off-the-Radar Outstandingly Preserved Site

Pickup included

What's included

Lunch & drinks is part of your experience

Vegetarian option? Easy! Just let us know before the tour.

Private tour. No strangers in your group of 2-8 people. More? Just contacts us through Viator.!

Bottled water and in-car INFORMATION BOOKLET for all tour activities and sites.

Non smoking new vehicle (2022) and non smoking driver

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

The Corinth Canal connects the Gulf of Corinth with the Saronic Gulf in the Aegean Sea. It cuts through the narrow Isthmus of Corinth and separates the Peloponnese from the Greek mainland, arguably making the peninsula an island.

An ancient city that has the rare advantage of not having been destroyed or covered by later settlements. This landscape combines the mountainous majesty of Delphi and the lowland riverine tranquillity of Olympia, with the looming bare limestone mass of Mt Ithome and its acropolis, and the low, fertile valley around the ancient city.

Stop 3

Back to Athens to be dropped off directly at your accommodation

What's not included

Touristy stops at souvenir, pottery, etc shops.

Pick up from areas outside Athens, Piraeus or Nafplio unless pre arranged.

Gratuities (optional)

PROFESSIONAL/LICENSED GUIDE (optional)

Available languages

Guide guide

Written guide

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

2 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Specialized infant seats are available

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

About Athens

Athens, the capital of Greece, is a city rich in history and culture, often considered the cradle of Western civilization. It is home to iconic ancient landmarks, vibrant neighborhoods, and a thriving modern scene.

Top Attractions

Acropolis of Athens

The Acropolis is the most iconic landmark in Athens, featuring ancient ruins and temples, including the Parthenon.

Historical 2-3 hours €20 (combined ticket for multiple sites)

Ancient Agora of Athens

The heart of ancient Athens, featuring the Temple of Hephaestus and the Stoa of Attalos.

Historical 1-2 hours €8 (included in the combined ticket)

Plaka

A charming, historic neighborhood with narrow streets, neoclassical houses, and vibrant nightlife.

Cultural 2-3 hours Free to explore

Acropolis Museum

A modern museum showcasing artifacts from the Acropolis and its surroundings.

Museum 1-2 hours €10

Temple of Olympian Zeus

An ancient temple dedicated to Zeus, once the largest temple in Greece.

Historical 30 minutes to 1 hour €6 (included in the combined ticket)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Moussaka

A baked dish with layers of eggplant, minced meat, and béchamel sauce.

Dinner Vegetarian versions available

Souvlaki

Grilled meat skewers, often served with pita bread and tzatziki.

Snack Can be made with chicken, pork, or vegetarian options

Tzatziki

A yogurt-based dip with cucumber, garlic, and herbs.

Snack Vegetarian and vegan options available

Baklava

A sweet pastry made with layers of filo, nuts, and honey syrup.

Dessert Vegetarian

Popular Activities

Hiking in the mountains Rock climbing Scuba diving Beach visits Spa treatments Café hopping Museum visits Theater performances

Best Time to Visit

April to June, September to October

The best time to visit Athens is during the spring and autumn months when the weather is pleasant and the tourist crowds are smaller.

18°C to 32°C 64°F to 90°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Greek
Widely spoken: English, French, German
English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+2 (EET)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Athens is generally safe for travelers, but petty crime and pickpocketing can occur in tourist areas. Be cautious with your belongings and avoid poorly lit areas at night.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps
• Be cautious with ATMs and credit cards

Getting there

By air

Eleftherios Venizelos International Airport • 30 km from city center

By train

Athens Central Railway Station

By bus

KTEL Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Clean, efficient, and air-conditioned. Easy to navigate with clear signage in English.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Beat, Uber

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Plaka Monastiraki Psiri Koukaki Kolonaki

Day trips

Cape Sounion

65 km from Athens • Half day to full day

A scenic coastal area featuring the Temple of Poseidon with stunning views of the Aegean Sea.

Delphi

180 km from Athens • Full day

An ancient archaeological site and home to the famous Oracle of Delphi.

Meteora

350 km from Athens • Overnight

A unique landscape featuring rock formations and medieval monasteries perched atop cliffs.

Festivals

Athens Festival • May to October Athens Epidaurus Festival • June to August Athens International Film Festival • October

Pro tips

Visit major attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and heat
Use the metro for easy and efficient travel around the city
Explore local neighborhoods for an authentic Greek experience
Try local street food for a quick and delicious meal
Learn a few basic Greek phrases to enhance your experience and connect with locals